You guys are right. Backlinks, on-site optimization, and more traffic will all three get you to the top of the search page. The exact algorithm used by Google is a secret, but SEO experts all agree on the above mentioned tactics.

Confountit is correct. I do not know about how existing traffic can boost SERP rankings, but backlinkbuilding and on site optimization happen to be the best tricks in your bag. Adding reams and reams of content will also do you a great great deal of benefit. Try hitting a few article marketing directories like ezine articles for some decent traffic.